Ovulation: Basal Body Temperature vs. Ovulation Test Strips - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Understanding ovulation can be complex, especially when using multiple methods to track it, such as ovulation test strips and basal body temperature (BBT). Let's break down your questions and concerns regarding ovulation, BBT, and the use of progesterone (yellow body hormone).

1. Did I ovulate? Should I trust the ovulation test strips or my temperature?
Ovulation test strips detect the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) that occurs just before ovulation. A weak positive result indicates that your body is gearing up for ovulation, while a strong positive suggests that ovulation is imminent or has just occurred. Your readings show fluctuations in the test results, with both weak and strong positives, which can indicate that you are indeed experiencing an LH surge. However, the absence of a significant temperature rise following this surge can be confusing.

BBT is typically lower during the follicular phase and rises after ovulation due to the increase in progesterone. A sustained increase in BBT (usually above 36.4°C) for at least three consecutive days is often used as an indicator of ovulation. If your BBT remains low, it may suggest that ovulation has not occurred, despite the positive results from the ovulation test strips.

2. If I ovulated, why is my temperature consistently low?
There are several reasons why your BBT might not rise even if ovulation has occurred. One possibility is that your body may not be producing enough progesterone to elevate your temperature. This could be due to a luteal phase defect, where the corpus luteum does not produce adequate progesterone after ovulation. Another possibility is that you may have experienced a "silent" ovulation, where ovulation occurs without the typical hormonal changes that lead to a temperature rise. Stress, illness, or hormonal imbalances can also affect your BBT readings.

3. Why hasn't my temperature increased after starting progesterone?
When you start taking progesterone (such as in the form of yellow body hormone), it should ideally help raise your BBT. However, if your body is not responding to the hormone as expected, it could indicate that there are underlying issues affecting your hormonal balance or that the dosage may not be sufficient. Additionally, if ovulation did not occur, the progesterone may not have the intended effect of raising your temperature.

In conclusion, while ovulation test strips can provide valuable information about your LH surge, they do not confirm that ovulation has occurred. BBT is a more reliable indicator of ovulation but can be influenced by various factors. If you are concerned about your ovulation patterns or hormonal levels, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist. They may recommend further testing, such as blood tests to measure hormone levels, to better understand your cycle and address any potential issues. Tracking your cycle over several months can also provide more insight into your ovulation patterns and help in making informed decisions regarding your reproductive health.